During a government shutdown, agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) generally pause new grant awards, proposal reviews, and program launches. Institutions with existing federal research awards may still be able to draw down previously obligated funds, but technical assistance, progress reviews, and application processing are typically suspended.

According to the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS), most federal research staff and grant managers are classified as nonessential and furloughed, resulting in delays that can extend well beyond the shutdown itself. Past shutdowns have led to cancellations of reserved time on national lab instruments, closures of field research sites on federal lands, etc.

The impact on undergraduate research is not yet clear, but students applying for NSF, NIH or other federally supported programs might experience delays in response times to email and program timelines might change. UROP advises students involved in projects to stay in communication with project mentors and be attentive to program websites for updates.

CU Boulder’s administration is working to minimize disruptions to research and other grant-supported activities. In the unlikely event that students with UROP funding experience changes in their ability to accomplish project goals, such as the availability of mentors and/or resources, UROP will not withdraw previously awarded funding.
 

Individual Grants

Context & Objectives

The proposal's objectives are clearly positioned within the "bigger picture" of the disciplinary frame or wider context.

Method & Strategy

The proposal clearly explains the methodology and/or strategy to achieve meaningful outcomes and objectives.

Scale & Scope

The proposal achieves meaningful learning outcomes in the award period without interfering with regular coursework and extracurricular obligations, including a timeline of activities.

Relevance

The proposal advances the student’s academic goals and/or professional aspirations.

Additional Criteria for Individual Grants

Resources & Materials

The proposal makes thoughtful, efficient use of available resources.

Originality & Creativity

The demonstrates originality of thought and creativity in approach and project design.

 

 

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